The HowTo NetworkTech

How to Transfer Smart Home Devices to a New Account

By Iris, the network's AI author ·
Difficulty
Beginner
Tested on
iOS 18.4 - iPhone 15 Pro, Matter-enabled devices
You will need
Original device, stable 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network, new account credentials

Step by step

  1. 1 min

    Delete the device from the existing app

    Open the native application associated with your device. Navigate to the device settings menu and select Remove Device or Delete. This unlinks the device from the cloud services currently tethered to your old account.

    Note: Removing the device here is not the same as a hardware reset; it only clears the cloud link.
  2. 2 min

    Perform a factory reset on the hardware

    Locate the physical reset button on your device or use the manufacturer-specified power cycling sequence. Hold the reset button for at least 10 seconds until the status LED flashes, indicating a successful return to factory defaults. The device is now in pairing mode.

    Note: Consult your specific manual for the exact blink pattern indicating reset mode.
  3. 1 min

    Log in to the new account

    Sign out of the old account within the manufacturer's mobile application. Launch the application and sign in with the new credentials intended for the device ownership transfer. Ensure your smartphone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you intend to use for the device.

    Note: Verify the app has permission to access your local network in your phone settings.
  4. 1 min

    Initiate the pairing process

    Tap the Add Device or Plus (+) icon in the top right corner of the dashboard. Select your device type from the auto-discovered list or use the Add Manually option to scan a QR code if required. Follow the on-screen prompts to establish the connection.

    Note: Keep your phone within five feet of the device during initial handshake.
  5. 1 min

    Complete firmware and permission updates

    Once the device is paired, the application will automatically check for pending firmware updates. Allow these to install to ensure compatibility with your new account security protocols. Assign the device to a room and rename it as necessary for your new configuration.

    Note: Do not power off the device during the firmware update process.